Question

A mass $M$ is placed on a very smooth wedge resting on a surface without friction. Once the mass is released, the acceleration to be given to the wedge so that $M$ remains at rest is a where

• A. a is applied to the left and $a = g \tan \theta;$
• B. a is applied to the right and $a = g \tan \theta;$
• C. a is applied to the left and $a = g \sin \theta;$
• D. a is applied to the left and $a = g \cos \theta;$

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

The pseudo acceleration for the body $a' = a$
If the pseudo force $Ma \cos \theta;$ = $Mg \sin \theta;$, then the body will be at rest, $a = g \tan \theta;.$
This horizontal acceleration should be applied to the wedge to the left.